PHYLOGENIC STUDY TO FIND GENETIC DIVERSITY OF WILDLY GROWING PHYLLANTHUS EMBLICA IN VINDHYA REGION

Abstract

Correct genotype identification of medicinal plant material remains important for botanical drug industry. Limitations of
chemical and morphological approaches for authentication have generated need for newer methods in quality control of
botanicals. Aonla, the Indian Gooseberry (Phyllanthus emblica Linn, P. emblica) is an important minor fruit crop, widely
grown in India due to its neutraceutical properties and having commercial significance. The present study was carried out
to develop DNA based marker for identification of P. emblica. Investigations on the use of RAPD markers enabled us to
estimate genetic variability among commercially cultivated 5 varieties. This study also enabled us to distinguish these
varieties using a set of four decamer primers, which was otherwise difficult by using morphological markers. The genetic
similarity was evaluated on the basis of presence or absence of bands. High degree of polymorphism was observed among
the samples, suggesting the degree of genetic variability. The genetic distance was very close within the varieties. Cluster
analysis revealed two different groups of varieties directly associated to their place of origin. RAPD markers were also
able to differentiate varieties of same origin or even selection from same parents. This information can be used for
identification of varieties and further crop improvement programmed.